A popular movie producer and director, Francis Onwochei, has described a colleague and the former president of Actors Guild of Nigeria, Segun Arinze, as a consistent thespian.

Fondly called Black Arrow, a name gained from playing a role in the 1996 classic movie Silent Night by the late filmmaker Chico Ejiro, Segun Padonou Aina, started his career professionally as a singer and an actor.

In a heartwarming ovation, Onwochei described the respected actor, who is also president of Voiceover Artists of Nigeria, as a distinguished colleague.

“Today we celebrate our very dear Segun Arinze aka “Black Arrow”.

“What is special with this distinguished colleague of mine is his unique background. Segun though born in Anambra state is of the Padonou family in Badagry, Lagos State, who grew up in both Kwara and Kaduna States. This will account for his dexterity speaking the three major Nigerian languages; Igbo, Yoruba and Hausa.

“A product of the University of Ife, thoroughbred actor and singer, I recall that after years of acting on stage and singing, Segun gained national prominence with his star performances.

“At the height of his career he rose to become President, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and currently serves as president, Voice Over Artistes of Nigeria.

“Arinze has remained consistent in the acting profession since the mid 80s on stage and early 90s on motion picture. Some of his notable appearances are Vuga, Tatoo, Across the Niger,Gold Statue, Family on Fire, Oloture,Anini and the unforgettable Silent Night which brought him to National prominence where he also earned the sobriquet “Black Arrow”.

“Segun Arinze lives in Lagos, married to his darling wife Julie, and they have children.

“Please, join me lets celebrate my fellow Anansa Playhouse (1985) team member as he turns 57years today 24th of September. May God grant you many fruitful years on earth in happiness. Happy birthday,” Francis Onwochei wrote.

Freelanews joins Onwochei to celebrate Black Arrow.